“Rheinmetall Unveils the Lynx 120: Revolutionizing Mechanized Fire Support with Power and Agility”

Rheinmetall has recently introduced the newest member of the company’s Lynx next-generation combat vehicle series. The Düsseldorf-based tech conglomerate has now engineered a mechanized fire support version of the Lynx KF41 IFV. Designated the Lynx 120, this exceptional platform integrates a proven turret design along with the reliable 120mm smoothbore cannon on the Lynx KF41 chassis. The latest mechanized fire support iteration of the Lynx provides remarkable assault support and anti-tank functionalities.

Owing to a precise amalgamation of lethality, protection, mobility, and survivability, the Lynx 120 stands as an ideal supplementary battlefield resource for Lynx platform operators. Incorporating commercially available components, careful engineering minimizes the vehicle’s weight, whilst adaptable protection packages enhance the overall offering. The vehicle’s design has been streamlined, providing an open ‘plug-and-play’ architecture for future enhancements, while conforming to NATO specifications.
As armed forces face forthcoming challenges such as advanced combat systems, amid a backdrop where traditional solutions have reached their performance limits, the Lynx 120 is crafted to provide unparalleled lethality and firepower on tracks, combined with cutting-edge defense technologies to deter potential threats.

Leveraging the Lynx KF 41 modular chassis and a versatile large-caliber turret design, the Lynx 120 is a high-capacity solution, possessing substantial growth potential and assured superiority capabilities. Just a few weeks ago, Rheinmetall Defence Australia revealed a combat support vehicle (CSV) variant of the Lynx; now, the fire support version has also been introduced.

The foundational concept behind the Lynx 120 design is to deliver a combat system that ensures peak operational performance, along with logistical advantages, within a reasonable timeframe and budget.
The vehicle’s principal armament features a Rheinmetall 120mm smoothbore cannon, derived from the main weapon system of the Leopard 2. It is equipped to fire advanced DM11 programmable high-explosive (HE) rounds. Its secondary weaponry comprises a coaxial machine gun. Additionally, the commander’s independent weapon station comes with an added .50 cal. machine gun.
An all-encompassing 360° camera system equipped with automatic target identification and tracking functionalities alleviates the crew’s responsibilities across various operational contexts.

Tailored protection modules facilitate a mission-specific approach to handling ballistic threats, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), explosively formed penetrators, and artillery fire, and can be swiftly deployed with minimal tools. Furthermore, the Lynx 120 is compatible with the established Rheinmetall Active Defence System (ADS), designed to neutralize rocket-propelled grenades and anti-tank missiles. Additional armoring solutions and active defense systems can be available upon request.

Numerous countries are keen on procuring the Lynx as a modern replacement for their aging fleets. The platform is presently a strong candidate in Australian and Slovak IFV modernization initiatives and is vying for selection in the USA’s Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle (OMFV) program. Hungary emerged as the initial customer in 2021. Beyond strictly military considerations, such as enhanced interoperability and capability improvements, significant localization initiatives play a crucial role in these procurement strategies, aimed at bolstering local industries and generating employment opportunities.